Welcome to Canada! 🇨🇦

Whether you’re here for work, study, or to start a new chapter in life, arriving in Canada marks the beginning of an exciting journey. But with excitement often comes a bit of overwhelm, especially when it comes to navigating the essential tasks you need to complete right after landing. To help you get off to a smooth start, we’ve put together a guide to the top five things you absolutely must do in your first few days in Canada. These steps are crucial for ensuring a successful transition and making your new life in Canada as seamless as possible.

1. Obtain Your Social Insurance Number (SIN)

The first and most critical step after arriving in Canada is to obtain your Social Insurance Number (SIN). The SIN is your gateway to working in Canada, as it’s required for tax purposes and to access government benefits. Without it, you won’t be able to legally work or get paid.
To apply for your SIN, visit a Service Canada office with your passport and work or study permit. The process is quick, and you’ll receive your SIN on the spot. Be sure to keep your SIN number secure, as it is sensitive information that should only be shared when necessary.
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2. Set Up a Canadian Bank Account

Next, you’ll want to set up a bank account. Managing your finances in a new country can be challenging, but having a local bank account simplifies things significantly. It allows you to deposit money, receive your salary, pay bills, and make everyday transactions easily.
When choosing a bank, consider the account types they offer, any fees involved, and their branch and ATM locations relative to where you’ll be living. Most banks offer special accounts for newcomers, which may include benefits like lower fees or perks designed to help you settle in Canada.
In Alberta, several banks offer student bank accounts with various features tailored to the needs of students. Here are some options from the major banks in Canada:

2.1. TD Canada Trust – TD Student Chequing Account

• Monthly Fee: $0
• Transactions: Unlimited free transactions
• Features: Free Interac e-Transfers, discounts on TD credit cards, no monthly fee for up to four years
• Benefits: Access to TD’s extensive branch and ATM network, student line of credit options

2.2. RBC Royal Bank – RBC Student Banking Account

• Monthly Fee: $0
• Transactions: 25 free transactions per month, additional transactions at $1.25 each
• Features: Unlimited free Interac e-Transfers, discounts on student credit cards
• Benefits: Offers RBC Rewards on credit cards, options for a student line of credit

2.3. Scotiabank – Scotiabank Student Banking Advantage Plan

• Monthly Fee: $0
• Transactions: Unlimited free transactions
• Features: Unlimited free Interac e-Transfers, no monthly account fee, Scene+ Rewards Program
• Benefits: Earn Scene+ points for movies and dining, student credit card options

2.4. CIBC – CIBC Smart™ for Students Account

• Monthly Fee: $0
• Transactions: Unlimited free transactions
• Features: Free Interac e-Transfers, no monthly fee for up to six years
• Benefits: CIBC credit card options for students, CIBC financial literacy resources

2.5. BMO – BMO Student Chequing Account

• Monthly Fee: $0
• Transactions: Unlimited free transactions
• Features: Free Interac e-Transfers, no monthly fee for up to four years
• Benefits: Student line of credit options, access to BMO’s ATM network

2.6. ATB Financial – ATB Student First Account

• Monthly Fee: $0
• Transactions: Unlimited free transactions
• Features: Free Interac e-Transfers, no monthly fee for full-time students
• Benefits: Access to ATB’s branch and ATM network across Alberta, student line of credit options

2.7. Tangerine Bank – Tangerine No-Fee Daily Chequing Account

• Monthly Fee: $0
• Transactions: Unlimited free transactions
• Features: Unlimited free Interac e-Transfers, no fees, free access to Scotiabank ATMs
• Benefits: Higher interest savings account options, online and mobile banking
Each of these accounts offers unique features and benefits tailored to students. It’s important to compare these options based on your specific needs, such as the number of transactions you expect to make, access to ATMs, and additional perks like rewards programs or discounts on credit cards.

3. Apply for Your Health Card

Healthcare is one of the cornerstones of life in Canada, and you’ll want to ensure you’re covered as soon as possible. Each province and territory has its own health insurance plan, and as a newcomer, you need to apply for a health card in your province of residence.
To apply, you’ll need to visit a local health office with your identification documents (like your passport and visa). Keep in mind that there may be a waiting period before your coverage kicks in, so it’s wise to consider temporary private health insurance for the interim. Once you receive your health card, it will allow you to access Canada’s healthcare services without worrying about the costs of doctor visits, hospital stays, or other medical services.

4. Find a Place to Stay

Whether you’re planning to stay temporarily or looking for a permanent home, finding a place to stay should be one of your top priorities. If you haven’t arranged housing before arriving, you’ll want to start by looking for temporary accommodations, such as Airbnb, hostels, or short-term rental apartments.
Once you’ve settled in, you can begin your search for more permanent housing. Depending on your budget and location preferences, you might consider renting an apartment, sharing a house, or even purchasing a home. Keep in mind that housing markets vary widely across Canada, so be sure to research the area you’re moving to and factor in things like proximity to work or school, public transportation, and local amenities.

5. Set Up Your Phone and Internet

Staying connected is essential, both for staying in touch with loved ones back home and integrating into your new community. The next step is to set up your phone and internet services.
Canada has several mobile carriers to choose from, offering a range of plans that vary in terms of data, talk time, and text messaging. If you brought an unlocked phone with you, you can simply purchase a Canadian SIM card; otherwise, you may need to get a new phone.
For internet, you’ll need to select a provider that services your area. Many companies offer bundled services that include internet, TV, and home phone options. Compare plans to find one that suits your needs and budget.

6. Phone Plans for Students

In Alberta, students have several options for phone and internet plans that are both affordable and offer good value for money. Here are some of the top options:

1. Fido

o Plan Type: BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) Plans
o Cost: Starting at $35/month for 5GB of data
o Features: Unlimited Canada-wide talk and text, data rollover, Spotify Premium free for 6 months, additional discounts for students
o Benefits: Fido XTRA perks, no contract

2. Virgin Plus

o Plan Type: BYOD Plans
o Cost: Starting at $40/month for 10GB of data
o Features: Unlimited talk and text, data gifting, Member Benefits for discounts on entertainment, travel, and fashion
o Benefits: Flexible plans, no overage charges, student discounts available

3. Koodo Mobile

o Plan Type: Monthly Plans
o Cost: Starting at $35/month for 5GB of data
o Features: Unlimited talk and text, data rollover, affordable data add-ons
o Benefits: Access to Telus’ extensive network, no contract required

4. Public Mobile

o Plan Type: Prepaid Plans
o Cost: Starting at $15/month for 100 minutes of talk and 250MB of data
o Features: Customizable plans, discounts for autopay, refer-a-friend rewards
o Benefits: Budget-friendly options, community rewards program

5. Rogers

o Plan Type: Student Plans
o Cost: Starting at $55/month for 20GB of data
o Features: Unlimited Canada-wide talk and text, data rollover, access to 5G network, streaming perks
o Benefits: Rogers exclusive offers, device financing available

Internet Plans for Students

1. Shaw Communications

o Plan Type: Fibre+ Internet 75
o Cost: Starting at $55/month
o Speed: Up to 75 Mbps
o Features: No data caps, WiFi modem included, access to Shaw Go WiFi hotspots
o Benefits: Student discounts available, contract and no-contract options

2. Telus

o Plan Type: PureFibre Internet 75
o Cost: Starting at $55/month
o Speed: Up to 75 Mbps
o Features: Unlimited data, WiFi 6 modem included, PureFibre connection
o Benefits: Bundle discounts with Telus mobility plans, SmartHome security options

3. Bell

o Plan Type: Fibe Internet 50**
o Cost: Starting at $49.95/month
o Speed: Up to 50 Mbps
o Features: Unlimited usage, WiFi modem included, bundle with TV for discounts
o Benefits: Bell Fibe TV and internet bundles, student promotions

4. TekSavvy

o Plan Type: Cable Internet 75**
o Cost: Starting at $55.95/month
o Speed: Up to 75 Mbps
o Features: Unlimited data, bring your own modem option, no contract
o Benefits: Competitive pricing, strong customer service reputation

5. Lightspeed

o Plan Type: Cable Internet 75**
o Cost: Starting at $45/month
o Speed: Up to 75 Mbps
o Features: Unlimited data, no contract, free modem rental for students
o Benefits: Budget-friendly, no hidden fees

Combo Packages

Some providers offer discounts or promotional rates if you bundle your phone and internet services:
• Shaw Communications: Discounts on mobile plans when bundled with internet services.
• Telus: Offers student bundles with discounts on mobility, internet, and home services.
• Bell: Savings when you bundle Fibe Internet and mobile plans.

Considerations for Students

• Contract vs. No Contract: If you prefer flexibility, go for no-contract plans.
• Data Requirements: Estimate your monthly data usage to avoid paying for data you don’t need.
• Student Discounts: Many providers offer special rates for students, so always inquire about discounts.
• Coverage: Ensure the provider has good coverage in your area, especially for mobile plans.
These options offer a balance of affordability, reliability, and the features students typically need. It’s important to compare plans based on your specific needs and usage patterns.